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Free toolbox talk: GFCIs and extension cords
A one-page electrical safety talk for any job running on temporary power, especially in wet fall and winter weather. Why ground-fault protection matters, six key points, three questions for the crew and a sign-in block. Read it here or print this page.
GFCIs and Extension Cords
Why it matters. Damaged cords and wet conditions are a common source of shocks on jobsites. Ground-fault protection is required for temporary power.
Key points
- Employers must protect workers with GFCIs or an assured equipment grounding conductor program on construction sites (1926.404(b)(1)).
- Test GFCIs as the manufacturer directs. A GFCI that will not trip is not protecting anyone.
- Extension cords for portable tools must be three-wire and designed for hard or extra-hard usage (1926.405(a)(2)(ii)(J)).
- Inspect cords before use. Remove cords with cut jackets, missing ground pins, taped splices or crushed sections.
- Do not run cords through doorways, windows or pinch points, or across traffic without protection.
- Keep connections out of water and off wet ground.
Ask the crew
- Where does our temporary power come from on this job, and is it GFCI-protected?
- What does a cord look like that should be thrown out?
- Who tests the GFCIs, and how often?
Reference: 29 CFR 1926.404(b)(1), 1926.405 | osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1926/1926.404
Sign-in
Date ______ · Job site ______ · Talk leader ______
| # | Printed name | Signature | Company / trade |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | |||
| 2 | |||
| 3 | |||
| 4 | |||
| 5 |
The printable PDF has 12 sign-in lines.
How to run it
- Hold it at the temporary power panel or wherever the crew plugs in today.
- Press the test button on each GFCI together and confirm it trips and resets.
- Have everyone pull out the cords they brought and check them: jacket, ground pin, plug and any splices. Tag out anything damaged.
- Ask the three questions, then have everyone sign and file the page with your safety records.
A training aid that supplements your safety program. Not a substitute for required training, a written safety program, a site-specific hazard assessment, or a competent or qualified person where OSHA requires one. OSHA references are federal (29 CFR 1926 and related parts), checked October 2026; state-plan states may have stricter rules. Not legal advice.
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